“Risk quite low” – first death due to bird flu virus type H5N2

Several laboratory analyzes confirmed the virus type. From 2003 to May 2024, a total of 463 deaths from infections with bird flu viruses were reported to WHO from 23 countries, but these were always A (H5N1).

“Current risk quite low”
The WHO reiterated its call for all countries to be vigilant and closely investigate clusters of diseases. But: “Based on the available information, WHO estimates the current risk of this virus for the general population to be low.”

First death from bird flu in Mexico
The case was the first bird flu death ever in Mexico. The person (59) had several other diseases. After several weeks of illness, she suddenly developed a high fever and shortness of breath, went to the hospital and died there on April 24. There is no evidence so far that the person has been exposed to infected poultry or other birds. No further infections were found among family members, acquaintances or medical staff who interacted with the person.

Detection of the virus in poultry was reported in Mexico. In March, an A(H5N2) outbreak was discovered in a backyard poultry farm in the state of Michoacán, bordering the state of Mexico, where the infected person lived.

How is the bird flu virus transmitted?
Bird flu is usually transmitted through contact with infected birds. In rare cases, it can also spread from one person to another. According to the US health authority CDC, this has happened very rarely and has only affected a few people.

An infection is usually harmless. However, the viruses can change in ways that make them easier to transmit from person to person. Therefore, vaccine candidates have been developed that can be quickly developed into available agents in the event of a pandemic.